As Bishop Hirschfeld begins his sabbatical, we share this prayer offered by the Rev. Alanna Van Antwerpen for the Bishop at our Annual Diocesan Convention on November 3rd:

A Prayer for Respite and Renewal

Holy and loving God, throughout the ages you have shown your servants how to draw close to you in prayer for the restoration and renewal of your mission in the world. From Moses, to the prophets of old, to Jesus retreating into solitude; we ask you send your Holy Spirit upon Bishop Rob as he enters this time of Sabbatical Refresher Leave. Let him know the powerful example of all the saints in light that accompany him on his journey. Let the love of our prayers in the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire surround him as he enters this time of reflection, discerning his ministry with us as we embody your love in this precious branch of the Jesus Movement. Let all of your people who are shepherded by Bishop Rob remain close to you, serving faithfully with integrity and light until his return to us. And may Bishop Rob go forth in your presence, assured your resurrection life will accompany him, and each of us, for the greater glory of your Holy Name–we ask this through Jesus Christ our Savior.
Amen.

We encourage your prayers, either this one or your own, for our Bishop as he enters this time of reflection, renewal and revitalization.